The first visit with a dentist for kids in Carlsbad is important, and here at Carlsbad Children’s Dentistry we understand that the first visit can shape the child’s opinion of dental appointments for the rest of their life. This visit is the beginning of a new relationship with the child and the dentist, and we want to be sure that your child has a good experience when they come to our office. There are several things that you can expect on your first visit:

Paperwork and Insurance Info
As with any medical appointment, the first step to visiting a dentist for kids in Carlsbad is to fill out the new patient paperwork and submit your insurance information. These details will make it easier for the office staff to bill for the treatments that your child receives, and the paperwork will provide the medical history that is needed so that the dentist can offer the best dental care for your child.

The first appointment will last about an hour, and we suggest that you arrive 10 minutes early so that you have time to fill out this paperwork. We provide toys and games in the waiting area, so that your child can be entertained while you are filling out the paperwork.

Cleaning and Checkup
When it is time for the appointment to start, you and your child will be led back into the examination room. Your child will be able to sit in the dental chair, and there are movies available if they would like to watch cartoons during the appointment. Throughout the appointment, our office staff with talk with your child in kid-friendly terms, and make them feel comfortable about the checkup and cleaning.

The appointment will include several steps, including: tooth cleaning, fluoride treatment, tooth examination, x-rays (if needed), and a demonstration about good oral hygiene. If needed, we can spend a little bit of extra time talking with your child about the importance of maintaining good dental habits at home. Many children respond well to these conversations, because the information is coming from a kids dentist in Carlsbad. When they receive this information from both the dentist as well as their parents, it helps them to be more consistent with their flossing and brushing at home.

Wrapping Up the Appointment
We like to use positive reinforcement throughout the appointment, and at the end of the appointment the child will receive a new toothbrush and other dental hygiene items. Our staff will talk with the parents that are present about the child’s oral health, and make suggestions about treatment options if they are needed.
After the appointment is complete, we also suggest that you schedule the next checkup for six months later. These regular checkups, along with good oral hygiene at home, is the best way to help your child have good dental health.

Call to schedule an appointment for your child at Carlsbad Children’s Dentistry. We specialize in dental care for infants, children and adolescents, and we would love to help your child have good dental health. You can schedule an appointment by calling us at: (760) 633-1131